Many fishermen from non-coastal counties, especially those from out-of-state, may possess limited knowledge of saltwater fishing techniques and may be unfamiliar with Georgia’s indigenous marine sport fish species. Recreational saltwater fishing is excellent in Georgia and every year, large numbers of spotted seatrout, red drum, black drum, sheepshead, flounder, whiting, spot and croaker are taken. However, anglers fishing in unfamiliar waters that exhibit six to eight foot tides may find difficulty in learning the proven techniques necessary for producing a good fishing experience.

Launching a boat can sometimes be a problem. Wind, low tide, a slippery, steep boat ramp, or other local problems may mean hidden hazards. The boat owner can make the task easier by being alert and following this simple procedure. Remember, courtesy and efficiency will go a long way in making a boat trip a pleasure for you and others too.

Where can I launch my boat?

There are many coastal public water access points throughout Coastal Georgia. Each county has several points of access via public boat ramps. The map in this article shows the locations of those boat ramps. Click the icon to get additional information about each individual facility.

Despite its popular usage, the term “artificial” reef may be somewhat of a misnomer. While the foundation of an artificial reef may consist of manmade structures, the biological community that establishes itself on these materials is very “natural.” Off Georgia, where natural reefs are not based on coral, but rather on rock outcroppings, this distinction may be even less, depending on the type of manmade material deployed.

The expanse of marshlands, tidal creeks and sound systems that make up the Georgia coastline produce an abundance of seafood for residents and tourists alike. Oysters and clams are very abundant in many areas and provide excellent table fare when managed and handled properly. Molluscan shellfish are filter feeders and therefore have the potential to accumulate high levels of biological and chemical contaminants that may be present in the water surrounding their habitat.